Famine is Putting Gaza at Risk
The US State Department Warns of Impending Catastrophe
Famine is already probably present in at least some areas of northern Gaza, while other areas are in danger of falling into conditions of starvation, the US State Department said on Friday. This assessment comes a day after the world’s top court ordered Israel to admit food aid into the territory. The US warnings add to a growing consensus that Israel’s military offensive in Gaza has triggered a famine. Aid distribution has increased, but it’s still insufficient to address the pressing needs of the population.
The Urgency of Additional Assistance
The number of trucks distributing aid in southern and central Gaza has slightly increased but is still insufficient. Additional aid is required to address the full nutritional needs of Gaza’s population of all ages. The State Department stresses that providing the bare minimum for survival is not enough, highlighting the growing problems of malnutrition, infant, and young-child mortality.
Floating Port to Address the Crisis
US President Joe Biden’s promise to establish a maritime aid corridor, including the construction of a floating port, is of utmost importance in delivering substantial aid. This aid is crucial in providing relief by mid to late April. Otherwise, the situation becomes a race against time, as famine becomes increasingly likely without a meaningful increase in aid deliveries through the Israeli border crossings.
Israeli Claims and International Rulings
The US comments contradict Israeli claims that they are allowing sufficient access to food and aid in Gaza. Last week, the main aid agency, UNRWA, stated that it had been prevented from delivering aid. Furthermore, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague issued a unanimous ruling ordering Israel to admit humanitarian assistance, warning that famine is already a fact in parts of Gaza, further solidifying the urgency of the situation.
A Stark Reminder and Continuing Consequences
Famine warnings and the ICJ ruling serve as a stark reminder of the man-made humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, worsening the situation for its 2.3 million population. Accusations of war crimes have been levied against Israel, with the UN’s top rights official expressing concern. Pressure mounts on the Biden administration, a key supporter of Israel, to address the crisis. President Biden has pledged to respond to the urgent humanitarian crisis and actively seek a ceasefire, hostage release, and essential aid.
UN Resolution and Ongoing Challenges
A UN Security Council resolution demanded an immediate ceasefire, release of hostages, and ensured humanitarian access in Gaza. However, organizations on the ground report little to no change in the situation. Aid groups consistently highlight a lack of capacity on the Palestinian side for distributing aid, while citing Israel’s limited willingness to allow delivery trucks, resulting in a fraction of the required supplies reaching Gaza.
New Gaza Ceasefire Talks and Continued Fighting
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has approved new talks on a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release in Doha and Cairo. The talks will take place in the coming days to establish guidelines for moving forward. Heavy fighting continues in Gaza, including attacks on hospitals.
The Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis
The crisis looms large as Gaza faces famine and struggles for basic supplies. The international community must act to address this urgent situation, providing the necessary aid and assistance to prevent further loss of innocent lives and help remove the specter of famine that hangs over the region.
